New Arizona law means some motorcycle violations could lead to reckless driving charge

YUMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KYMA) - A new Arizona law means some motorcycle violations could now lead to a reckless driving charge.

This includes riding between lanes of traffic, known as lane splitting, and passing another vehicle while staying in the same lane.

Both were already illegal, but now they can lead to reckless driving charges.

A first offense is a Class 2 misdemeanor, with a second offense within 24 months bumping up to a Class 1 misdemeanor.

"It is dangerous and it's hazardous. So please avoid doing it because you can cause an even bigger accident," said Sgt. Lori Franklin with the Yuma Police Department (YPD).

YPD said riders should know their limits, pay attention to the cars around them, and always drive defensively. They also said if they are not comfortable with a move, don't do it.